Costume vs Uniform

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

	Costume	Uniform
Meaning	An outfit worn for a particular occasion, often for parties or performances.	The same clothes worn by a group of people.
CEFR level	B1	A2
Part of speech	noun	noun
Usage notes	Use 'costume' when referring to clothing for events like Halloween or theatrical performances. Avoid using it in formal contexts not related to dress or play.	Used when referring to clothes that identify a specific group, like students or police. Not used for casual clothing in informal contexts.

Frequently asked questions: Costume vs Uniform

What's the difference between "Costume" and "Uniform"?

"Costume" means: An outfit worn for a particular occasion, often for parties or performances. "Uniform" means: The same clothes worn by a group of people.

When should I use "Costume" and "Uniform"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Costume" and "Uniform" the same CEFR level?

"Costume" is at B1, "Uniform" is at A2 on the CEFR scale.